The proposed solution to send Kenyan Troops to the First Independent Black Republic, Haiti, is not viable due to a purposefully disregarded fundamental factor: firearms smuggling to Haiti.
The smuggling of weapons to gangs in Haiti is a grave concern that requires immediate attention by US authorities because the seaport of the greater Miami area is where most shipments leave the US to Haiti. Weapons of war in the hands of gangs in Haiti undermine any attempt for humanitarian relief and stability in the entire region. It is obligatory that all concerned authorities, domestic and international, join forces to eliminate this illicit and deadly trade. Such illegal and harmful trade violates the United Nations Security Council’s (UNSC) Resolution 2653. The resolution allows appropriate measures of punishments that includes but are not limited to assets freeze or travel ban measures against those engaged in or supporting gang violence, criminal activities, or human rights abuses or who otherwise took action that undermined the peace, stability, and security of Haiti and the region. Prosecuting those responsible and extending the UNSC 2653 resolution is crucial to decrease the ability of those gangs to continue their reign of terror. It is vital to note that Haiti does not manufacture weapons or ammunition. Those weapons of war were shipped to Haiti in direct violation of the embargo.
Throughout Haitian history, the international community has consistently terrorized Haitians, suppressing their democratic rights in three distinct and oppressive ways.
Firstly, the Haitian army, trained and financed by the international community, has acted as a tool of repression, exerting control and silencing dissent.
Secondly, a paramilitary group known as “tonton makout” has instilled fear and maintained a tight grip on power.
And now, gangs have emerged as a new tool of repression, further restricting the expression of democratic rights and engaging in extrajudicial killings. Acknowledging and addressing these repressive forces is crucial to ensure the protection and promotion of democracy in Haiti.
Anyone willing to assist Haiti during this existential crisis must push back against the narrative, leading to ignoring violators of UNSC resolution 2653. They must be held accountable to ensure the safety of Haitians and Kenyan troops.
The UN resolution is crucial for ensuring accountability and justice in Haiti’s recovery and development discourse. By holding violators accountable, we can contribute to the establishment of a stable, prosperous state and put an end to the reign of terror. We mustn’t turn a blind eye to embargo violators of UNSC resolution 2653. By doing so, we unknowingly contribute to emboldening violators and strengthening criminal gangs operating with impunity throughout the country. Taking a firm stance against these violations is crucial in upholding international law and maintaining the security of the Caribbean region. We must actively identify and prosecute violators and impose sentences according to existing laws to discourage future transgressions. Failure to do so will only perpetuate a cycle of impunity and undermine the effectiveness of UNSC resolution 2653. For the benefit of the First Black Republic, let us remain vigilant and resolute in our efforts to combat firearms embargo violations.
Accountability for the rule of law violations is necessary for the justice system to function effectively. The United Nations Security Council must uphold its permanent members to adhere to its resolutions.
Haiti, the nation that achieved independence in 1804, was pivotal in dismantling the planetary slave system. That heroic act inspired nations everywhere and uplifted The Human Spirit to assert their “Mounité” Humanity. Haiti’s contribution to humanity’s musical landscape cannot be overlooked, as it fine-tuned and adjusted the pitch for the tones of the human experience. The pitch and tones manifest in Spirit and Truth that all Human Beings are created equal.
Lest we forget, in a speech on January 2, 1893, at the dedication of the Haitian Pavilion – World’s Columbian Exposition, Jackson Park, Chicago, Frederick Douglass reminded us of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the achievements of Haiti in these words:
“We should not forget that the freedom you and I enjoy today is largely due to the brave stand taken by the black sons of Haiti ninety years ago. Striking for their freedom, they struck for the freedom of every black man in the world.”
Viking Merceron
Freelance Haitian Creole Interpreter